Loveland Baseball Preps for 2026 Season with Veteran Leaders

Seniors Waldorf and Underwood set the tone for Red Wolves' young squad

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Loveland High School baseball team is looking to its senior leaders, Caden Waldorf and Cole Underwood, to guide the squad through a challenging 2026 season. With a roster thin on varsity experience, Waldorf and Underwood will be relied upon to keep the team focused and energized as they work to secure a spot in the 32-team Class 5A postseason bracket.

Why it matters

Loveland is facing a tough schedule this season, with matchups against Northern Colorado powers like Windsor, Rocky Mountain, and Fossil Ridge. The team's ability to overcome early mistakes and learn quickly will be crucial to their playoff push. Waldorf and Underwood's steady leadership will be key in helping the young Red Wolves squad develop and reach their potential.

The details

Waldorf and Underwood are known for their level-headed approach, refusing to let emotions get the better of them even in tough situations. As the team's top hitters and pitchers, respectively, they will be looked to for both production and guidance. Head coach Darryl Baca is confident that the senior duo's knowledge and experience will help the younger players get up to speed quickly.

  • The Loveland High School baseball team will play its first game on Saturday, March 21.
  • The Red Wolves' first home game will be on March 21 at 11 a.m. against Berthoud.

The players

Caden Waldorf

A senior who will bat third or fourth in the order and play in the outfield and at second base.

Cole Underwood

A senior left-handed pitcher who will hold the No. 1 spot in Loveland's pitching rotation.

Darryl Baca

The Loveland High School baseball head coach, entering his fourth season.

Wes Cheever

A senior who is looking strong as the next option in the rotation after Underwood.

Easton Hoefler

A sophomore who is expected to get a chance to prime the offense as the leadoff hitter.

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What they’re saying

“I've always been a guy who tries not to show much emotion. I try to keep it cool and level-headed, something for others to follow.”

— Caden Waldorf, Senior (reporterherald.com)

“You've got to be a leader, ready not to show any negative emotion, keep your team as hyped and energized as possible without bringing them down.”

— Cole Underwood, Senior (reporterherald.com)

“It's all about the mindset — being competitive. Our guys believe this is a year we can go and surprise some teams.”

— Darryl Baca, Head Coach (reporterherald.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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